Devices and methods for preventing or reducing the severity of hemorrhoids include a raised portion and a base, where the raised portion extends in a first direction away from the base and is shaped to engage and apply pressure to a region of a patient subject to hemorrhoids. The devices may further include a plug for insertion into the anal canal to engage and apply pressure to another region of the patient subject to hemorrhoids. The methods include securing the device in an engagement position to apply the pressure to prevent or reduce the severity of hemorrhoids. Such devices and methods are especially applicable during the childbirth process.
